Aphaenogaster albisetosa worker (bottom) defending her nest from much smaller Forelius pruinosus workers (top). The Aphaenogaster's head is blurred because she has just been sprayed by the noxious chemicals sprayed by the smaller Forelius worker.

Aphaenogaster albisetosa worker with Staphylinid beetle. Many of these beetles have managed to trick the ants into believing that they belong to the nest, so that the ants will feed and defend them.

Aphaenogaster albisetosa worker with Staphylinid beetle. Many of these beetles have managed to trick the ants into believing that they belong to the nest, so that the ants will feed and defend them.

Closeup of myrmecophilous Staphylinid beetle from previous pictures. Many of these beetles have managed to trick the ants into believing that they belong to the nest, so that the ants will feed and defend them.

Side view of Aphaenogaster albisetosa worker.

Unless otherwise noted, all images copyrighted by Dale Ward. Contact me at
ants@tightloop.com for questions regarding
use of these images.